Stephen King's life challenges, particularly his struggles with addiction and experiences of trauma, profoundly shaped his perspective on fear. Growing up in a turbulent environment and facing personal demons influenced his ability to craft memorable characters and unsettling narratives. King's battles with substance abuse informed his explorations of the darker aspects of human nature, allowing him to portray fear authentically. His understanding of isolation and loss resonates in his works, making them compelling reflections of the human psyche.